A short video rapidly spread on the social platform X, depicting a priest seated on the floor of a moving train, performing an abhishek while devotees in white garments participated. Viewers immediately questioned whether religious rites are permissible inside railway coaches and warned that such imagery could tarnish the nation’s reputation.

Clarification from Northern Railway

Within hours, the Northern Railway zone issued an official statement. It clarified that the ritual was not conducted in a standard passenger carriage but inside a privately booked saloon car – a premium coach typically reserved for senior railway officials and VIPs, equipped with air‑conditioned bedrooms, a kitchenette, a living‑dining area, and attached bathrooms.

The zone disclosed that the saloon car had been commercially reserved through IRCTC on July 8, with an advance payment of ₹3,08,580. The coach was scheduled to be attached to Train No. 12926 Paschim Express for a one‑way journey from New Delhi to Mumbai on July 10, subject to operational feasibility.

Safety, Punctuality and Passenger Impact

Railways emphasized that ensuring punctuality, safety, security and passenger convenience remains its core responsibility. In this instance, no passenger was injured or inconvenienced because the puja was confined to a coach exclusively booked for the private party.

Context of Recent Controversies

The incident resurfaced just days after a separate video showed a train coach transformed into a “honeymoon suite,” sparking public outrage and leading to the suspension of a ticket examiner. Both episodes have reignited debate over private bookings that blur the line between public service and exclusive luxury.

Regulatory Outlook

Industry analysts argue that clearer guidelines are needed for private coach reservations, especially when religious or social events are involved, to prevent disruption of regular services. They also suggest that Indian Railways should publish transparent policies to balance cultural sensitivities with operational discipline.